BBC 6 Music 'Should Be Closed', BBC Director Says

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Tim Davie, audio and music director at the BBC, says it is right to close down 6 Music.

The digital radio station has been outlined for closure, along with Asian Network, in an effort to cut costs.

Davie said he was “passionate” about 6 Music, but that he agreed with plans to “strengthen and simplify” the BBC's radio line-up.

"I do not believe that offering the current range of nine stand-alone digital networks is the right way to serve audiences and ensure radio remains strong in a digital world,” he said.

“And, while digital radio has seen growth, my concern is that current development remains slow.

"So we are proposing to reduce the number of stations and re-invest in our five core networks."

In a blog post on the BBC website, which is also set to be streamlined under the new proposals, Davie said only one in five adults had heard of 6 Music since its launch in 2002.

He also added that less than one in 50 people listen to the digital station each week.

"I know that there is real sadness that we are losing valued services, but this is part of a strategy to ensure BBC Radio continues to be as relevant and popular as ever in the digital world,” Davie said.

Plans to close 6 Music has led to a backlash from figures within the music industry and the wider public.

BBC Director General Mark Thompson said on Tuesday that the earliest 6 Music and Asian Network would close would be the end of 2011.